Reducing Stigma
STIGMA - stig-mə: a set of negative and unfair beliefs that a society or group of people have about something.
“One of the major obstacles to persons seeking treatment for addiction is the stigma attached to the disease.” -Bob Gaydos
The language we use to describe people with substance use disorders can perpetuate addiction-related stigma. By carefully choosing the words we use, we increase the likelihood of having a positive impact rather than a negative one. The following information has been adapted from the National Institutes of Health.
HOW DOES STIGMA AFFECT PEOPLE With substance use disorder (SUD)?
Feeling stigmatized can reduce the willingness of individuals with SUD to seek treatment.
Stigmatizing views of people with SUD are common; this stereotyping can lead others to feel pity, fear, anger, and a desire for social distance from people with an SUD.
Stigmatizing language in the news, press and media can negatively influence healthcare provider perceptions of people with SUD, which can impact the care they provide.
HOW CAN WE CHANGE STIGMATIZING BEHAVIOR?
When talking to people with SUD, their loved ones, and your colleagues, use non-stigmatizing language that reflects an accurate, science-based understanding of SUD and is consistent with your professional role.
Because clinicians are typically the first points of contact for a person with an SUD, health professionals should “take all steps necessary to reduce the potential for stigma and negative bias.” Take the first step by learning the terms to avoid and use.
Use person-first language and let individuals choose how they are described. Person-first language maintains the integrity of individuals as whole human beings—by removing language that equates people to their condition or has negative connotations. For example, a “person with a substance use disorder” has a neutral tone and distinguishes the person from his or her diagnosis.
